Sam Allardyce has left his job as England manager by mutual consent, the Football Association has announced.

Allardyce was targeted in a Daily Telegraph investigation into alleged corruption in England football and widespread reports on Tuesday night suggested that crisis meetings at Wembley, involving Football Association chairman Greg Clarke and chief executive Martin Glenn, had reached a conclusion.

After confirming that Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager, by “mutual agreement” The Football Association released this statement.

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“Allardyce’s conduct, as reported today, was inappropriate of the England manager. He accepts he made a significant error of judgement and has apologised. However, due to the serious nature of his actions, The FA and Allardyce have mutually agreed to terminate his contract with immediate effect.

“This is not a decision that was taken lightly but The FA’s priority is to protect the wider interests of the game and maintain the highest standards of conduct in football. The manager of the England men’s senior team is a position which must demonstrate strong leadership and show respect for the integrity of the game at all times.

“Gareth Southgate will take charge of the men’s senior team for the next four matches against Malta, Slovenia, Scotland and Spain whilst The FA begins its search for the new England manager.

“The FA wishes Sam well in the future.”

Allardyce was covertly filmed in an investigation by The Daily Telegraph at two meetings he believed were with representatives of a Far East firm.

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Allardyce, 61, was seen appearing to make a variety of indiscreet and controversial comments to undercover reporters posing as businessmen.

While Allardyce was seen talking in unguarded and potentially damaging fashion about his predecessor Roy Hodgson, former assistant manager Gary Neville and his selection policy involving individuals, the most serious issue appeared to be his apparent willingness to pursue a £400,000 deal to address investors in the Far East and his views on the outlawed practice of third-party ownership.